A Volusia County man was arrested over the weekend after police said he punched a police horse.Officials said at about 2:45 a.m. Sunday an Orlando police officer observed a man, later identified as 23-year-old Pedro Arzola, punch a police horse named Captain in the left rear flank.Video: Man arrested, accused of punching horseThe incident took place as officers on horseback where directing traffic and asking a large group to clear Orange Avenue."One subject who was refusing to get out of the street was upset the horse was near him and decided to punch the horse," Sgt. Jim Young said.Arzola was talking on his cellphone and ignoring initial commands from authorities, officers said.Officials said they had to grab Arzola and apply handcuffs before he would comply.Arzola was charged with attempting to injure a police horse."We just hope people respect the animals. Obviously, the officer on top is giving commands -- trying to get people to do what we need them to do to ensure public order," Young said.Related: Florida mug shots

ORLANDO, Fla. —

A Volusia County man was arrested over the weekend after police said he punched a police horse.

Officials said at about 2:45 a.m. Sunday an Orlando police officer observed a man, later identified as 23-year-old Pedro Arzola, punch a police horse named Captain in the left rear flank.